Metis Music Traditions

Thanks to the Music Alive  program "All My Relations" 

by Sherryl Sewepagaham for much of this content.  



Who are the Metis-

The Métis people are of First Nations and European ancestry, including French, Scottish, and

English lineage. They are often referred to as the sons and daughters of the fur trade.


Proud to Be Metis

The Metis

The waltz is one of the favorite dances of the Métis people. 

Traditionally, in Métis communities, people would travel for long distances and gather together to feast and celebrate  with family and friends through live music and dance. Many slow waltz songs are played by the fiddle and recorded for partner dancing.

Below is the Tear Drop Waltz played By John Arcand.


 Some Metis pass along their traditions to their children.  These jigging  children are in a dance group that celebrates Metis music and dance.


The All Our Relations Métis Drum Circle was formed by Métis women from the MNO Oshawa and Durham Region Métis Council in 2008 who wanted to learn about, celebrate, and honour their  Indigenous heritage. This drum circle welcomes Indigenous women and friends of the Indigenous culture and community to join.